Imogen Lucas

'Make Do' is an exploration of the values and beliefs passed down through my family, focusing on the often-overlooked principle of making do with what we have. This project explores British working-class culture and examines the traditions and values we have gradually abandoned or begun to take for granted.

I’ve grown up close to the British seaside, became a key inspiration for this work. I was drawn to its distinctive textures and materials, including lace curtains, table covers, shells, and rust, which I incorporated into my design process. These elements evoke both nostalgia and resilience, echoing the resourcefulness that can define working-class identity.

A particular focus of the project is the pressure faced by working-class women to conform to societal expectations through dress. Clothing is always a statement, whether intentional or not, but for working-class individuals, there can be an added struggle to mask their origins which can expose their vulnerability (I also showed this through using lace as the main material of my garment as curtains are made to conceal, lace ones can reveal slightly what is behind) . This tension is embodied in my garment: a balaclava adorned with shells that produce sound as the wearer moves. The audible clatter symbolizes the instant judgments we make based on appearance.

Throughout my sketchbook, I experimented with various materials and collage techniques, using these processes to unpack my theme in different ways. This exploration allowed me to connect traditional making with a modern or unique outlook, staying true to the spirit of ‘making do